This weekend, Year 13 student Sophie L-J was promoted to the prestigious role of Lead Chorister at Chester Cathedral.

Sophie has been a dedicated member of the Cathedral Choir since 2015, contributing her voice and commitment to the Cathedral’s rich musical tradition for nearly a decade. Alongside this, she has been a significant contributor to our own College Chapel Choir, where her talent and leadership have helped enrich the spiritual and musical life of Abbey Gate College.

Sophie is not alone in her dedication. Within the current ranks of Chester Cathedral Choristers are a further seven full choristers and two probationers from Abbey Gate College – meaning that from Years 6 through to Year 13, we are proudly represented by eight full choristers and two probationers on their musical journey.

Our links with Chester Cathedral run deep and long. Abbey Gate College itself occupies buildings that were once part of a Benedictine monastery connected to the Cathedral, and those historic ties remain a defining part of our identity today. This connection is strengthened through people as well as place: Phillip Rushforth, the Cathedral’s Director of Music, is an alumnus of Abbey Gate College, while Canon Rosie Woodall sits on our Governing Board.

Together, these historic and living links reflect the close relationship between Abbey Gate College and Chester Cathedral, where tradition, music and education come together in harmony. Sophie’s promotion is a fitting celebration of this relationship and a proud moment for the College community.